Outfits that give us confidence

We all have a couple of outfits that are our "go to" outfits when we need to feel confident. When I'm going to an event such as a conference or interview where I need to impress, I can always depend on my black jacket (above) worn with trousers which are "of the moment" - as in cropped trousers today - and either metallic boots in winter or sandals or edgy flats in summer.

The jacket is a MaxMara but was an amazing bargain. I was rummaging in the House of Fraser department store in Swindon a few years ago when, on the sale rail, I found this divine jacket. And it was reduced to £10!

I'm wearing it with a white blouse from Peter Hahn (sold out, but this one is similar) and cropped trousers from Next. The sandals are by Vionic - they were sent to me to review. I haven't had chance to wear them all day yet (it wasn't warm enough to venture out in sandals last week) but my initial impressions are good: I was immediately aware there was some divine cushioning under my feet, podiatrist-designed technology to provide orthotic support, relief and stability which helps realign the feet back to their natural position.

I added a couple of red accents with my felt rose by Jo's Designs (Etsy) and red bag. Not to mention the lippy and nail polish.

My other confidence outfit is this:

I tend to wear this if I'm going to meeting women a lot younger than me. My logic, which is probably flawed, is that as it's a Vivienne Westwood skirt it defies fashion trends. Her skirts and dresses are known to be figure flattering and the draping is very distinctive.

I didn't pay the full price for this skirt either, which has a bit of a story behind it.  There's a site called Hardly Ever Worn It where you can buy second hand designer clothes and accessories. Occasionally they have clothes provided by a celebrity. In the case of my skirt it was Carol Vorderman, who will be well known to UK readers. So I have Carol's skirt! It's a size 10 and at the moment a little bit snug, if I'm honest, as I still haven't shed the seven pounds gained between Sept and Dec last year.

I always feel confident in Peter Pan collar tops and have several. This one is from Oasis (past season). 

The jumper is one I've had for a couple of years, from Boden, which has a blingy collar.  It's always been a favourite.

So there are my two confidence outfits.  What do you wear for the big work occasions?

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